Fix : Cannot turn on Windows Firewall in Windows 8

This post will help your troubleshoot a problem with Windows 8, where you cannot turn on Windows Firewall. There can be a few reasons for this to happen. Reasons & possible solutions are mentioned herein.

Reason 1 & solution

If you have a third-party antivirus / Total security software installed in your PC, make sure that the software’s own firewall is turned off. Else you will not be able to turn on Windows Firewall.

In this scenario, it is recommended that you use only one firewall, either Windows Firewall or your Security software’s firewall.

Reason 2 & Solution

I am assuming that you are using a antivirus software that does not have it’s own firewall and Windows Firewall is not starting.

In this scenario, try this:

Press Windows Logo Key + X

Click on Command Prompt (admin)

On the Command Prompt type : services.msc

Within the services locate Windows Firewall service and double click it ( refer screenshot below)

Make sure the Windows Firewall services is running, else click on start and set the start up to Automatic.

Some More Solutions

System File Checker

Press Windows Logo Key + X

Click on Command Prompt ( admin )

type SFC /SCANNOW

Let the process Finish

Uninstalling any Antivirus software

The Very first thing should be to locate your antivirus license key / serial no. or activation information.